Geese, Ducks, Mergansers

Ring-necked Duck, Aythya collaris

Family Anatidae (Geese, Ducks, Mergansers)

Size: 17"

Season: Year-round

Habitat: Shallow lakes and ponds near woodlands, coastal bays

The ring-necked duck, also known as the ring-billed duck, is in the group of diving ducks that typically swim underwater to find plant and animal prey, although it may also behave like a dabbling duck and bob for food at the surface. This gregarious small duck looks tall with its postlike head and neck and peaked crown. The breeding male is stunning, with contrasting light and dark plumage and a dark metallic-brown-purple head. The bill is gray with a white ring and black tip, and the base of the bill is edged with white feathers. The female is more brownish overall, with a white eye ring. The ring around the neck, for which this duck is named, is actually a very inconspicuous brownish band at the bottom of the neck in the male bird. The breeding female (top) and breeding male (bottom) are illustrated.